Buying a new refrigerator is a joyful event, but it requires strict adherence to technical regulations. Many owners of household appliances Atlant make the same mistake: they connect the unit to the power grid immediately after delivery, ignoring the physical and chemical processes occurring inside the system. This can lead to compressor failure or incorrect operation of the system No Frost.
The time required to stabilize the temperature directly depends on transportation conditions and ambient temperature. If the device was transported in a horizontal position or at subzero temperatures, it requires time not only to cool the chambers, but also for the oil to spread throughout the system. The minimum settling time after delivery is 3-4 hours, and at subzero temperatures - up to 24 hours.
The process of initial temperature set-up is not an instantaneous action, but a cyclic algorithm of operation. compressor. Unlike subsequent starts, the first start-up always lasts longer, since the system needs to cool not only the air, but also the massive walls of the chambers, shelves and the refrigerant itself. Understanding these processes will help you avoid false panics and correctly assess the serviceability of the equipment.
Factors influencing the duration of the first start
The duration of operation Atlant refrigerator until it reaches the set temperature and turns off varies. The main factor here is the volume of the chambers and the type of defrosting system. Single-compressor models of two-compartment refrigerators often work longer, since one motor must cool two circuits, switching between them. Two-compressor units cope with the task faster and more efficiently.
The temperature in the room also plays a critical role. If you install appliances in the kitchen, where it is hot, or near heating devices, the first cycle time increases significantly. Heat transfer in such conditions it is difficult, and the compressor is forced to work almost non-stop until it reaches the target values.
⚠️ Attention: If after 12 hours of continuous operation the refrigerator does not turns off and does not gain temperature, this may indicate a freon leak or a malfunction of the thermostat. Do not leave the equipment in this mode indefinitely without diagnostics.
It is important to take into account the degree of loading of the cameras at the first start. An empty refrigerator cools down faster, but has a lower heat capacity. However, it is not recommended to start the unit with a full load of products right away - this will create an excessive heat load. The optimal start-up is considered to be with empty chambers or with a minimum amount of products to test functionality.
Why is it important to let the refrigerator settle
Transporting household appliances is always a risk for internal components. When transported in the back of a truck, even with proper precautions, vibration and vibration will occur. The oil located in compressor crankcasecan get into the refrigerant circuit, in particular, into the evaporator or condenser.
If you turn on the unit immediately, the compressor will begin to pump a mixture of oil and gas, which will lead to water hammer. This is one of the most common reasons for instant breakdown of new equipment. The oil must drain back into the crankcase under the influence of gravity, which takes time.
What happens inside the compressor when starting without settling?
During a sudden start, the oil that has not had time to drain blocks the valves or gets into the thin capillary tubes. This causes overheating of the motor windings and can lead to jamming of the piston group. Repair in this case is often impractical.
In addition, if the refrigerator is brought from the street into a warm room in winter, condensation will form on the internal parts. Turning on a wet electrical appliance is dangerous due to a short circuit. Therefore, the “settling” rule applies not only to the oil, but also to equalizing the temperature of the internal components to room temperature.
Cooling stages: how the first cycle works
The primary cooling process can be divided into several conventional stages. Understanding this sequence will help you not to interfere with the operation of the equipment and not open the doors again. The first stage is the start of the compressor and the beginning of circulation refrigerant.
At the second stage, active cooling of the evaporator walls occurs. You may hear a characteristic hissing or gurgling sound - this is normal, this is how freon boils. In models with the system No Frost a fan is also started to circulate cold air.
The third stage is stabilization. The compressor enters operating mode, and the temperature in the chambers begins to gradually decrease. At this moment, it is important not to open the doors so as not to disturb the heat exchange. The duration of this stage depends on the volume of the chambers.
☑️ Checklist for the first start
The final stage is the first automatic shutdown of the compressor. This is a signal that the set temperature has been reached and the system has switched to temperature maintenance mode. From this moment, the first cycle can be considered completed.
Table of standard operating time before the first shutdown
The time required to reach operating temperatures depends on the model. Below are averaged data for various types of refrigerators Atlant. It is worth remembering that these values are relevant at an ambient temperature of about +20...+25°C.
| Refrigerator type | Chamber volume (approximate) | First cycle time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-chamber | up to 250 l | 2 - 4 hours | Quick temperature set, simple system |
| Double-chamber (1 compressor) | 250 - 350 l | 6 - 10 hours | Long cycle due to sequential cooling |
| Two-chamber (2 compressors) | 300 - 400 l | 4 - 6 hours | Independent cooling of the chambers speeds up the process |
| No Frost system | Any | +20% to normal | Time is required for defrosting and air purging |
If your refrigerator operates longer than the values indicated in the table, it is worth checking the tightness of the seals and the absence of direct sunlight on the body. Also make sure that the gap between the back wall and the furniture is at least 5-7 cm for normal operation of the condenser.
Typical mistakes during first operation
One of the most common mistakes is an attempt to speed up the cooling process by setting the thermostat to maximum. This is strictly forbidden. The compressor will work hard, trying to reach an unrealistically low temperature, which can lead to overheating and failure.
Another mistake is loading a large amount of warm products at the beginning of the first cycle. Even if you just bought groceries, let them cool to room temperature before putting them in a new refrigerator. Otherwise, you will disrupt the cooling cycle, and the unit will work without stopping.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use fans directed inside the open chamber or ice packs to speed up cooling. This disrupts the operation algorithm of electronics and temperature sensors.
Also, users often ignore instructions for setting the level. If the refrigerator is not level, the doors may not fit tightly, or the oil in the compressor may not be distributed evenly. Use a building level and adjustable legs to install the equipment.
Is it normal for the refrigerator to hum or click?
When you turn it on for the first time Atlant refrigerator it can make sounds that have never been heard before. This is due to the fact that all the parts are new and have not yet gotten used to them. The characteristic hum of the compressor, gurgling of the refrigerant and clicks of the relay are normal variants.
However, you should be wary if you hear a metallic grinding sound, a strong knock or vibration of the case. This may indicate that the shipping bolts have not been removed (if the model has them) or the compressor is touching the case walls due to improper installation.
On models with the system No Frost the sound of the fan may also be heard. It should be uniform and quiet. If the fan makes an intermittent noise or whistle, the blades may be hitting ice or a foreign object.
When can you load food?
The main question that worries all buyers: when can you finally put food in? The answer is simple: only after the refrigerator has reached its full temperature and the compressor has turned off (or switched to maintenance mode) for the first time. This usually happens 6-12 hours after switching on.
It is better to load products gradually. First put in a small batch and wait for the temperature to return. Then add more. Sudden loading of a large volume of warm goods will force the compressor to work in extreme mode.
Do not fill the chambers to capacity on the first day. Leave space for air circulation, especially in models with No Frost. This will ensure uniform cooling of all products and proper operation of the sensors.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to plug the Atlant refrigerator into the network immediately after delivery if it was transported standing?
Yes, if transportation was carried out strictly in a vertical position and without strong shaking, the settling time can be reduced to 1-2 hours. However, experts still recommend maintaining the standard 3-4 hours to guarantee the safety of the compressor.
Why has the refrigerator not turned off for 15 hours?
When turned on for the first time, this is possible if the room is very hot, the doors were often opened or warm products were loaded. If the chambers are empty, the doors did not open, and the unit does not turn off for more than 24 hours, this is a sign of a malfunction (freon leakage, thermostat failure).
Do you need to wash the refrigerator before turning it on for the first time?
Required. During production and storage in warehouses, dust settles inside the chambers. Wipe all surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in a weak solution of soda or a special product for household appliances, and let dry.
What to do if water appears inside after the first turn on?
A small amount of condensation in the first hours is normal, as moist air cools down. However, if there is a lot of water or it appears constantly after the temperature has risen, check the drainage hole (in drip systems) or whether the tilt level is set correctly.